From Trees to Tech: The Contribution of Natural Rubber in Next-Gen Flexible Electronics

In the modern era, flexible electronics have emerged in every sector, making our lives easier. With the progress of research, there is a strong need for flexible electronics developed from sustainable sources to minimize the carbon footprint. Accordingly, natural rubber (NR) and its derivatives have been explored for flexible electronic applications. This review examines the potential of NR-based flexible electronics, focusing on various types of flexible sensors, self-powered systems, and different energy harvesting devices. To develop high-performing, NR-based flexible electronics, selecting suitable materials, proper fabrication techniques, structural design, and sensing mechanisms is required. All the possible chemical modifications and the incorporation of various functional fillers to enhance NR's electrical and delve into mechanical properties regardless of the application. Gradually, on various flexible sensors in detail, emphasizing their operating mechanisms are focused. The review also covers next-generation self-powered sensors and energy harvesters, which harness ambient energy sources such as motion, light, heat, and moisture to power electronic devices. This review provides an overview of the state-of-the-art developments in NR-based flexible sensors and energy harvesters. The review concludes with a summary of the challenges and opportunities associated with NR-based flexible electronics, offering insights into future research direction and plausible commercial applications.